Wednesday, September 11, 2019

"More Or Less Live" Online Performance

One of the most important functions of art is to build community. That’s often done in-person- you go to the open mic, or sign up for the poetry slam, or head to the local venue for a Hip Hop show. And that’s all beautiful, and TruArtSpeaks (an organization I’ve worked with for ten years now) does that work with so much power and intention.

I’m also interested, however, in expanding how that work can be done. Because honestly, I’m an introvert, and I don’t like crowds, and my schedule is hectic. Those factors can make it hard for me to show up to all the cool stuff I want to support. I know I’m not alone in that, either. So this month, I really wanted to throw a benefit show for TruArtSpeaks, but I also wanted to experiment a little, and maybe expand how we think about that kind of work.

So on Sunday, September 15, as the official kickoff to TruArtSpeaks’ “Power & Presence” campaign, we’re going to throw a virtual benefit show. I’m going to “go live” via my Facebook page, share some poems (including some brand new work), talk about new projects, answer some questions, and illuminate just why I think TruArtSpeaks’ work is so vital. If that can inspire a few extra people to donate to our campaign this year, I’m putting up $500 to match it. All of the money raised will go directly toward supporting the next generation of artists and leaders in Minnesota and beyond.

Even if you can’t give now, though, you can still tune in and join the conversation. Because this campaign isn’t just about raising money; it’s about expanding the cypher and bringing more people into this work. Hope to see you then.